This Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Orzo is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for entertaining. Tender chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and parmesan come together in a garlicky cream sauce that clings perfectly to orzo pasta. It’s a one-pan dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in just 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenderloins
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked orzo
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
Instructions
➜ Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet. Season chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear for 3 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through. Remove and set aside.
➜ Step 2: Toast Orzo and Aromatics
In the same skillet, add a little oil, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and orzo. Sauté for 2 minutes until orzo begins to toast.
➜ Step 3: Simmer Orzo
Pour in chicken stock, season with salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
➜ Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream
Stir in spinach until wilted. Add cream, basil, red pepper flakes, and parmesan. Mix until creamy.
➜ Step 5: Return Chicken and Serve
Slice chicken and return to skillet. Stir into creamy orzo. Serve warm with extra parmesan.
Pro Tips
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative.
Can I use another protein?
Shrimp or salmon work beautifully with the same creamy sauce.
Can I prep this ahead?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken stock or cream.
Nutrition (per serving, 1 bowl)
This creamy chicken orzo is high-protein, balanced, and satisfying.
| Serving Size | 1 bowl |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbs | 42g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary.
